Many sailing clubs enjoy racing, but starting a race properly ( giving accurately timed sound signals with the correct lights/flags ) can be tricky for club volunteer members who are not too familiar with procedures.
The sailing ‘Race Control Box’ project demonstrates a low-cost, portable unit that will help even novice Race Officers run races with confidence.
It provides accurate timing and visible countdowns for the start of a race, with prompts on the LCD screen.
The Portable Racebox can have relay outputs to drive both sound and light signals automatically.
It handles multiple flights (rolling starts) and offers 12 different start sequences to suit most situations including, of course, ISAF 541Go.
Based on the popular Arduino/Genuino Uno microcomputer, the Race Control System is cheap to construct, so accessible to all clubs whether large or small.
Features
- – Battery or USB (printer cable) powered.
- – Select from several start sequences. E.G. 541Go; 321Go; 963Go etc.
- – Team Racing start sequences, with extra sound signals during the final minute.
- – Accurate countdown and race elapsed times shown on LCD screen
- – Timed Horn signals
- – LED indicators for lamps/flags
- – Prompts on LCD screen for flags up/down
- – Manual Horn button
- – Can select multiple flight starts (1 – 6)
- – Issue “Individual Recall” or “Flight Recall” with sound/visual signals, and automatic restarts.
- – Can signal “Shorten Course” once the race is underway
I built this fully working unit for 88 GBP
The low cost puts it in reach of even small clubs.
All the details are available on this site to download, customise and build your own!
Please see the Overview page here
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